When it comes to home exteriors, there’s a secret ingredient that can dramatically elevate its appeal: texture. The perfect blend of textures can make even the simplest siding stand out. However, a lot of properties, even the newly designed ones, often miss this mark, presenting exteriors that appear somewhat dull and one-dimensional. This could be because they don’t leverage the plethora of texture-rich materials available.
Now, everyone has a unique sense of style, and what might appeal to one homeowner may not resonate with another. But there’s one type of siding that has stood the test of time, offering an undeniable charm – the shake and shingle siding.
Having had extensive experience as a premier siding contractor in Kansas City, we have firsthand insight into the transformative power of these siding styles. Let’s delve deeper into what makes shake and shingle siding so special.
Distinguishing Shakes from Shingles
At first glance, shakes and shingles might seem interchangeable, but upon closer inspection, their distinct characteristics shine through. Both these siding materials traditionally utilize cedar, though contemporary designs offer a wider array of materials.
- Shingle Siding: Shingles bring texture, but with an understated elegance. They are precision-cut, ensuring smooth finishes and edges. This manufacturing process lets them adopt multiple designs, such as:
- Straight edge
- Staggered edge
- Scalloped or rounded
- Patterned
- Shake Siding: The real allure of shake siding lies in its rugged and raw nature. With irregular edges and a more pronounced texture, shakes exude a handcrafted vibe. Generally thicker than shingles, they resonate with those who prefer a rustic aesthetic.
Making the Most of Shingle and Shake Siding
The true potential of shakes and shingles is realized when they’re strategically incorporated into the home’s exterior:
- Accent Siding: Mix and match with other siding materials, like the neat lines of shingles or the rough edge of shakes, to lend versatility and depth to your home’s facade.
- Varying Shingle Styles: A well-thought-out combination of, say, straight-edged and scalloped shingles can create a visually arresting exterior.
- Full Coverage: Why limit shingles and shakes as mere accents? They can be the star of your home’s exterior. The choice of color is pivotal here—a weathered gray imparts a quaint charm, while deeper shades like black or brown can evoke a mysterious, storybook ambiance.
- The Rustic Appeal: If the idea of an earthy, natural home exterior resonates with you, shakes are your go-to. Their intrinsic ruggedness can be used to lend a touch of the wilderness.
- Design Style Enhancements: Shingles seamlessly align with specific architectural designs such as Cape Cod, Coastal, Rustic, Cottage, and more. When you couple the right color palette with shingles’ texture, the outcome is nothing short of magical.
James Hardie Shake and Shingle Siding: The Modern Touch
While cedar remains a classic choice for shingles and shakes, innovation has introduced materials like James Hardie’s fiber cement. The traditional charm of wooden shingles, although beautiful, often comes with a maintenance overhead. James Hardie’s HardieShingle siding offers the best of both worlds—aesthetics minus the tedious upkeep.
Enhance your home’s beauty and character with the sophisticated allure of shakes and shingles. And with products like the Hardie Board, maintenance becomes a breeze. To ensure top-notch installation, consider engaging with a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, such as Distinctive Home Exteriors.
Eager to revamp your home’s exterior with James Hardie siding? Our team stands ready for an on-site consultation. Get in touch and let’s help you bring your dream exterior to life.
